Mission

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Who We Serve

The IDD community that Best Buddies serves includes, but is not limited to, people with Down syndrome, autism, Fragile X, Williams syndrome, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury and other undiagnosed disabilities.

Programs

Best Buddies is the world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower the special abilities of people with IDD by helping them form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure successful jobs, live independently, improve public speaking, self-advocacy and communication skills, and feel valued by society.

One-to-One Friendships

Builds friendships between people with and without IDD, offering social mentoring while improving the quality of life and level of inclusion.

Integrated Employment

Secures jobs for people with IDD, allowing them to earn an income, pay taxes, and support themselves.

Leadership Development

Educates and empowers people with and without IDD to be leaders, public speakers and advocates.

Inclusive Living

Providing a vibrant, integrated living opportunity for people with and without IDD.